Chicagoans are gearing up for a series of stormy weather events as the National Weather Service (NWS) flags elevated risks of severe thunderstorms starting today and carrying on through the week. Showers and thunderstorms are likely after 4:00 p.m. today, with the possibility of large hail and damaging winds—especially north of Interstate 80, as the NWS Chicago office warns residents through their forecast.
According to the detailed local forecast, Chicago's Monday evening could bring more showers and thunderstorms, primarily before 7:00 p.m., along with sustained south-southwest winds of 5 to 10 mph. The chance of precipitation stands at a steady 60%, with the potential for localized flooding, particularly in urban areas. However, Tuesday might offer a temporary respite with a breezy afternoon and a reduced chance of precipitation until the evening. Tuesday evening, however, is expected to bring a "Significant Thunderstorm Risk" with the potential for damaging winds and brief tornadoes, especially near the Interstate 39 corridor, the NWS Hazardous Weather Outlook states.
Looking further into the week, the storm risk diminishes slightly but remains present. Wednesday offers mostly sunny skies with a high near 76°F, yet as the week progresses, the city will be under the threat of scattered showers once again. The NWS Chicago's weather update mentions that while most of tonight and daytime Tuesday will likely be dry, another round of potentially severe storms is anticipated by Tuesday evening.
Sct'd t-storms this afternoon, w/a few severe storms possible. While a shower or storm cannot be ruled out, most of tonight & daytime Tue will be dry. Another round of potentially severe storms is expected Tuesday evening. #ilwx #inwx pic.twitter.com/h4tkYg4MIL
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) May 20, 2024
Residents and visitors should also be aware of the conditions on Lake Michigan, which could see limited hail and thunderstorm wind gust risks up to 50 knots today. For those venturing onto the lake, hazardous conditions for small craft are expected by Tuesday and will likely persist into Tuesday night. As the weekend approaches, the thunderstorm risks seem to relent, but it is advised to keep an umbrella at hand, with chances of showers continuing through Sunday.
